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A Properly Conducted Sham
A ruined reputation, a monstrous secret, and a love story as old as time…
Gossip is one of Charlotte’s favorite pastimes—until she finds herself its target. Nearly a year into widowhood and newly with child, Lady Charlotte James finds herself rejected by her lover. She must find a new husband or face ruin.
Leopold Bennet, Earl of Champaign, shuns society and his own reflection. Hidden away in the country, he is free to spend countless hours in his observatory with the stars. They don’t judge him for the occasional, all-consuming attacks, nor do they stare in horror at his scarred face.
But, the anonymity of a masquerade proves too tempting, and Lee braves the crush. With golden curls and a quick wit, Charlotte instantly captivates him. But the midnight unmasking sends him fleeing back to the shadows.
Unwilling to accept defeat, Charlotte presents Lee with a scandalous proposition. To her astonishment, he agrees with a caveat of his own—one year in the country in exchange for the protection of his name.
A Properly Conducted Sham is a heartfelt twist on “Beauty and the Beast.” This marriage of convenience brings together two lonely, broken souls underneath the stars.
Gossip is one of Charlotte’s favorite pastimes—until she finds herself its target. Nearly a year into widowhood and newly with child, Lady Charlotte James finds herself rejected by her lover. She must find a new husband or face ruin.
Leopold Bennet, Earl of Champaign, shuns society and his own reflection. Hidden away in the country, he is free to spend countless hours in his observatory with the stars. They don’t judge him for the occasional, all-consuming attacks, nor do they stare in horror at his scarred face.
But, the anonymity of a masquerade proves too tempting, and Lee braves the crush. With golden curls and a quick wit, Charlotte instantly captivates him. But the midnight unmasking sends him fleeing back to the shadows.
Unwilling to accept defeat, Charlotte presents Lee with a scandalous proposition. To her astonishment, he agrees with a caveat of his own—one year in the country in exchange for the protection of his name.
A Properly Conducted Sham is a heartfelt twist on “Beauty and the Beast.” This marriage of convenience brings together two lonely, broken souls underneath the stars.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2025
12 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
About the author
Ally Hudson
9 books31 followersAlly Hudson is an Amazon bestselling author of steamy Regency romance, crafting captivating tales of love, healing, hope, and family. Her debut series, Most Imprudent Matches, weaves together eight unforgettable love stories spanning decades, blending humor and heart with devoted heroes and capable heroines. Ally’s stories celebrate the countless forms love can take, each one deserving its moment to shine.
When she’s not writing, Ally can be found embroidering, baking, or catering to the every whim of her charming dog, Darcy.
When she’s not writing, Ally can be found embroidering, baking, or catering to the every whim of her charming dog, Darcy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
January 28, 2025
The shrew and her stargazing beast
Charlotte & Leopold
Jilted by a duke, forced into a cold marriage, widowed, abandoned by her lover, expecting his child, scorned by society and facing ruination - a lot less would turn a gossip lover into an eye-rolling shrew. For her, love equals pain and disappointment.
Once a ton golden boy, this earl lost everything in a devastating accident and became a stargazing recluse, for stars neither stare nor judge. Beneath his scars and paralysing panic attacks, hides a protective romantic with a sly sense of humour.
This is not a sad story, but a beautiful tale of growth laced with humour, peppermint, frustration, delicious tension and just a spat of danger. I loved this couple, their touching slow burn and the intimate setting!
The marriage of convenience is just a medium, not a main. It’s two people, lonely and broken, believing they can’t be loved, finding their other half. They both see beyond the other’s facade fairly quickly, but breaking down those walls takes patience and care. Wary of men she easily assumes the worst, and he withdraws, battling his own demons, not wanting to impose. He gives her space and she comes to him in her own time. I liked that there was no pressure, but I also liked that as time goes by, they both start dreading the end of their arrangement.
Where there’s a bit of sizzle from the start, the steam builds just as slowly as the romance, and feels completely natural. Poor Charlotte and all her pregnancy hormones... but again, there’s no pressure and it just works for these two.
And all along you know evil is lurking and something dreadful is about to happen - and it does happen, providing a nice bit of action, angst and a thrilling grand finale.
Finally, a special shout out to Lee’s guard cat!
This is the sixth book in this series, and, while not strictly necessary, reading the first five will certainly add extra depth to this one. Plus, it’s an absolutely brilliant series!
Charlotte & Leopold
Jilted by a duke, forced into a cold marriage, widowed, abandoned by her lover, expecting his child, scorned by society and facing ruination - a lot less would turn a gossip lover into an eye-rolling shrew. For her, love equals pain and disappointment.
Once a ton golden boy, this earl lost everything in a devastating accident and became a stargazing recluse, for stars neither stare nor judge. Beneath his scars and paralysing panic attacks, hides a protective romantic with a sly sense of humour.
This is not a sad story, but a beautiful tale of growth laced with humour, peppermint, frustration, delicious tension and just a spat of danger. I loved this couple, their touching slow burn and the intimate setting!
The marriage of convenience is just a medium, not a main. It’s two people, lonely and broken, believing they can’t be loved, finding their other half. They both see beyond the other’s facade fairly quickly, but breaking down those walls takes patience and care. Wary of men she easily assumes the worst, and he withdraws, battling his own demons, not wanting to impose. He gives her space and she comes to him in her own time. I liked that there was no pressure, but I also liked that as time goes by, they both start dreading the end of their arrangement.
Where there’s a bit of sizzle from the start, the steam builds just as slowly as the romance, and feels completely natural. Poor Charlotte and all her pregnancy hormones... but again, there’s no pressure and it just works for these two.
And all along you know evil is lurking and something dreadful is about to happen - and it does happen, providing a nice bit of action, angst and a thrilling grand finale.
Finally, a special shout out to Lee’s guard cat!
This is the sixth book in this series, and, while not strictly necessary, reading the first five will certainly add extra depth to this one. Plus, it’s an absolutely brilliant series!
January 26, 2025
Gossip is one of Charlotte’s favourite pastimes until she finds herself its target. Nearly a year into widowhood and newly with child, Lady Charlotte James finds herself rejected by her lover. She must find a new husband fast or face ruin. Leopold Bennet, Earl of Champaign, shuns society and his own reflection. Hidden away in the country, he is free to spend countless hours in his observatory with the stars. They don’t judge him for the occasional, all-consuming attacks, nor do they stare in horror at his scarred face. But, the anonymity of a masquerade proves too tempting, and Lee braves the crush. With golden curls and a quick wit, Charlotte instantly captivates him. But the midnight unmasking sends him fleeing back to the shadows.
Unwilling to accept defeat, Charlotte presents Lee with a scandalous proposition. To her astonishment, he agrees with a caveat of his own—one year in the country in exchange for the protection of his name.
The fifth book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own to fully appreciate it I’d recommend the whole series. I loved Lee who was a gentle giant, caring & supportive at the beginning I couldn’t believe he’d agreed to Charlotte’s proposition as I didn’t warm to her at all. I found her to be a social gossiping butterfly but boy did my opinion change as more of her backstory was revealed. I loved their journey to a HEA which wasn’t easy as there was a lot of miscommunication & secrets. There was also witty banter & much eye rolling. I loved how they found a common interest in viewing the stars. A lovely book of two lonely damaged people finding each other. There’s also a rescued cat who manages to sneak everywhere. Another engrossing book which I loved & found hard to put down
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Unwilling to accept defeat, Charlotte presents Lee with a scandalous proposition. To her astonishment, he agrees with a caveat of his own—one year in the country in exchange for the protection of his name.
The fifth book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own to fully appreciate it I’d recommend the whole series. I loved Lee who was a gentle giant, caring & supportive at the beginning I couldn’t believe he’d agreed to Charlotte’s proposition as I didn’t warm to her at all. I found her to be a social gossiping butterfly but boy did my opinion change as more of her backstory was revealed. I loved their journey to a HEA which wasn’t easy as there was a lot of miscommunication & secrets. There was also witty banter & much eye rolling. I loved how they found a common interest in viewing the stars. A lovely book of two lonely damaged people finding each other. There’s also a rescued cat who manages to sneak everywhere. Another engrossing book which I loved & found hard to put down
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
February 1, 2025
Badly treated imprudent widow!
My first read of Hudson’s Imprudent Matches series and I’m hooked.
Widowed Lady Charlotte James has had one encounter with a man she’d called a friend who’d said he wanted to marry her. One short time with a man she thought loved her and Charlotte finds herself pregnant.
The cad not only spurns her but spread rumors about her so that all label her as a shrew and hussy. Now she must find a husband or be socially ruined.
Going to a masquerade was her last desperate throw of the dice to try to find a a spouse, respectability, and a father for her unborn child.
Who does she run into but the damaged Lord Leopold Bennet, Earl of Champaign. They share a portion of the wall to lean against. Lee is avoiding people in general. Charlotte is panicked by the male populations response to her. The cad has been busy.
Lee has faced mental challenges and bad reactions to the slightest trigger points since his wife died in a carriage fire where he was badly burnt.
He and Charlotte talk.
The next day in desperation Charlotte visits him to plead her case, for him to consider marrying her.
What follows is a heartbreaking journey of anxiety, rebuttal, shared joys and sorrows.
A brave tale that begged for more.
A Booksirens ARC
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
My first read of Hudson’s Imprudent Matches series and I’m hooked.
Widowed Lady Charlotte James has had one encounter with a man she’d called a friend who’d said he wanted to marry her. One short time with a man she thought loved her and Charlotte finds herself pregnant.
The cad not only spurns her but spread rumors about her so that all label her as a shrew and hussy. Now she must find a husband or be socially ruined.
Going to a masquerade was her last desperate throw of the dice to try to find a a spouse, respectability, and a father for her unborn child.
Who does she run into but the damaged Lord Leopold Bennet, Earl of Champaign. They share a portion of the wall to lean against. Lee is avoiding people in general. Charlotte is panicked by the male populations response to her. The cad has been busy.
Lee has faced mental challenges and bad reactions to the slightest trigger points since his wife died in a carriage fire where he was badly burnt.
He and Charlotte talk.
The next day in desperation Charlotte visits him to plead her case, for him to consider marrying her.
What follows is a heartbreaking journey of anxiety, rebuttal, shared joys and sorrows.
A brave tale that begged for more.
A Booksirens ARC
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
January 28, 2025
This was my first book by Ally Hudson and it will not be my last.
Thank you to Ally Hudson and Book Sirens for the ARC of A Properly Conducted Sham. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Charlotte, Lady James was widowed almost year ago, but finds herself pregnant with her lover's child. But Mr. Wesley Parker, whom Charlotte has loved for years, refuses to marry her, claiming that she is a well-known flirt and the child could belong to anyone. Charlotte is a society gossip and has spent years spreading the latest about other women of the ton but now finds herself on the other side of the vitriol. She needs to find a husband and she needs to find one now. Enter Lee, Lord Champaign. He was injured in a fire and has scars that have caused him to withdraw from society. He does not have an heir and needs one so when Charlotte proposes that they marry so she can have the protection of his name and he will have the heir he needs without having to subject a woman to his scarred body, he accepts but puts the provision into their agreement that they will only have to live on his estate for a year. After that she is free to return to town and live her life away from him.
The marriage of convenience to cover up a pregnancy plot is hard to do and it is especially hard to do well. This trope can end up with the heroine coming off desperate and the hero looking like a saint even when he is deeply flawed. I think Ally Hudson did a great job of pulling off this plot. While yes, Charlotte is desperate, so is Lee. He needs an heir but he's terrified to take off his clothing with a woman because of a bad experience. They need each other.
Charlotte was an interesting character because she has been the mean girl in society. She was needlessly cruel to other women and spread terrible gossip. But over the course of this book she realizes she was wrong and comes to terms with the fact that she is alone in the world partly due to her own behavior. We also see how callous the men in her life have been to herm (her father, first husband and Wesley) and understand a bit why she lashed out as she did so she would get some kind of attention.
Lee carries tremendous guilt from his accident and suffers from what we would call PTSD today. It takes Charlotte showing up for him every single day, engaging in his astronomy hobby, sharing the joy of music or painting, for him to start to understand that he is not a bad man. Something bad happened to him. I loved the way he took care of Charlotte, especially in their intimate relationship. He refuses to let her believe that it is her lot in life to suffer because of the needs of men.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It is part of an interconnected series but I read it as a standalone and had no problem following the story. I would definitely recommend it to my historical romance lovers.
Thank you to Ally Hudson and Book Sirens for the ARC of A Properly Conducted Sham. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Charlotte, Lady James was widowed almost year ago, but finds herself pregnant with her lover's child. But Mr. Wesley Parker, whom Charlotte has loved for years, refuses to marry her, claiming that she is a well-known flirt and the child could belong to anyone. Charlotte is a society gossip and has spent years spreading the latest about other women of the ton but now finds herself on the other side of the vitriol. She needs to find a husband and she needs to find one now. Enter Lee, Lord Champaign. He was injured in a fire and has scars that have caused him to withdraw from society. He does not have an heir and needs one so when Charlotte proposes that they marry so she can have the protection of his name and he will have the heir he needs without having to subject a woman to his scarred body, he accepts but puts the provision into their agreement that they will only have to live on his estate for a year. After that she is free to return to town and live her life away from him.
The marriage of convenience to cover up a pregnancy plot is hard to do and it is especially hard to do well. This trope can end up with the heroine coming off desperate and the hero looking like a saint even when he is deeply flawed. I think Ally Hudson did a great job of pulling off this plot. While yes, Charlotte is desperate, so is Lee. He needs an heir but he's terrified to take off his clothing with a woman because of a bad experience. They need each other.
Charlotte was an interesting character because she has been the mean girl in society. She was needlessly cruel to other women and spread terrible gossip. But over the course of this book she realizes she was wrong and comes to terms with the fact that she is alone in the world partly due to her own behavior. We also see how callous the men in her life have been to herm (her father, first husband and Wesley) and understand a bit why she lashed out as she did so she would get some kind of attention.
Lee carries tremendous guilt from his accident and suffers from what we would call PTSD today. It takes Charlotte showing up for him every single day, engaging in his astronomy hobby, sharing the joy of music or painting, for him to start to understand that he is not a bad man. Something bad happened to him. I loved the way he took care of Charlotte, especially in their intimate relationship. He refuses to let her believe that it is her lot in life to suffer because of the needs of men.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It is part of an interconnected series but I read it as a standalone and had no problem following the story. I would definitely recommend it to my historical romance lovers.
December 18, 2025
God save me from atrocious written "modern" historical romance novels.
🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮
🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮
January 28, 2025
Bad girl redeemed is always a tricky trope to pull off in my opinion, but Hudson managed it beautifully here. If you have read the series (and you should, it's wonderful!), Charlotte has been a not-so-nice background character throughout, especially in Winning My Wife. When we meet her here, she is in her own bit of trouble and quickly realizes she has not much room for shrewishness. Lee is the perfect mate for her (or anyone, he's fabulous). He has his own darkness to fight, but is alway patient, kind, and understanding; he even finds her personality quirks cute and endearing.
Hudson always takes you on a journey with her characters, and some of the times are tough on the characters and your heartstrings. It pays off big in the end always, though. I was pleasantly surprised that Hudson didn't shy away from certain plot-lines that rarely go the way she takes them (and makes them work). Brava.
I was surprised how much I loved this story. I had hoped for a book for Champaign, but would never have pictured him with Charlotte. Hudson won me over with her writing and the depth of affection these two discover through it all. Lee is the perfect cinnamon roll hero. Even with his own challenges, he is always there for Charlotte. He has the most open and kind, if tortured, heart.
I also have to mention how much I enjoyed Lee and Brigsby's relationship. I love when characters have good banter with their servants/friends. Oh, and I can't forget to mention Cass. She's such a hoot. She has her good and bad traits, a bit like Charlotte.
I think it could perhaps be read as a stand-alone if you wanted, but would be much better as part of the series to see Charlotte's full character arc---and there is a continuing/concurrent plot-line that plays a big part here. Plus, again, it is a wonderful series. It takes you on all the highs and lows for the characters and brings them (and you) through it all beautifully every time.
I'm still hoping for books for Kit, Tom and Xander! (maybe even those last two together???)
P.S. Another gorgeous Swoonies cover. I just love how vibrant they are as well as the attention to details matching the book/characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hudson always takes you on a journey with her characters, and some of the times are tough on the characters and your heartstrings. It pays off big in the end always, though. I was pleasantly surprised that Hudson didn't shy away from certain plot-lines that rarely go the way she takes them (and makes them work). Brava.
I was surprised how much I loved this story. I had hoped for a book for Champaign, but would never have pictured him with Charlotte. Hudson won me over with her writing and the depth of affection these two discover through it all. Lee is the perfect cinnamon roll hero. Even with his own challenges, he is always there for Charlotte. He has the most open and kind, if tortured, heart.
I also have to mention how much I enjoyed Lee and Brigsby's relationship. I love when characters have good banter with their servants/friends. Oh, and I can't forget to mention Cass. She's such a hoot. She has her good and bad traits, a bit like Charlotte.
I think it could perhaps be read as a stand-alone if you wanted, but would be much better as part of the series to see Charlotte's full character arc---and there is a continuing/concurrent plot-line that plays a big part here. Plus, again, it is a wonderful series. It takes you on all the highs and lows for the characters and brings them (and you) through it all beautifully every time.
I'm still hoping for books for Kit, Tom and Xander! (maybe even those last two together???)
P.S. Another gorgeous Swoonies cover. I just love how vibrant they are as well as the attention to details matching the book/characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 30, 2025
I really enjoyed the touching marriage of convenience romance with added secret pregnancy and opposites. The story is very well written, emotional and has poignant and humorous moments, a bit of suspense and danger and some steamy love scenes.
I knew the protagonists from the earlier books in the series and while I've always liked Lee, I wasn't a big fan of Charlotte. Lee is a scarred and troubled cinnamon roll hero who took my heart by storm with his kind, supportive nature. His struggles were palpable throughout the book. Charlotte is jaded and a bit shrewish due to her painful past (only hinted), but she also grew on me as the story progressed. I loved the way she dealt with Lee, encouraging and supporting him. The two of them have great chemistry and their interactions were heartwarming. I particularly liked the scenes with the child and also the epilogue.
While the book can be read as a standalone, I still recommend reading the earlier parts first as you get to know and better understand the backstories and also the secondary characters, including the villain of this book.
Since the carriage accident in which his wife died and which left him severely disfigured, Leopold "Lee" Bennet, Earl of Champaign, has suffered from severe panic attacks and lives a secluded life on his country estate.
When the widowed Lady Charlotte James is left pregnant by the man she thought she loved and wanted to marry, and he also spreads nasty rumours about her, she must act quickly and find a husband to save her reputation. Her last chance is the Waylands' masked ball, where she makes the acquaintance of Lee, who doesn't seem to know her. The next day she seeks him out to seduce him, but he sees through her plan but still offers her a marriage of convenience for a limited time and agrees to recognise her child. Despite their traumatic experiences, their different characters and the rumors, they soon become friends and secretly long for a lasting relationship…
I am happy to recommend this touching romance novel with its great character development and endearing protagonists who deserve their happy ending!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
I knew the protagonists from the earlier books in the series and while I've always liked Lee, I wasn't a big fan of Charlotte. Lee is a scarred and troubled cinnamon roll hero who took my heart by storm with his kind, supportive nature. His struggles were palpable throughout the book. Charlotte is jaded and a bit shrewish due to her painful past (only hinted), but she also grew on me as the story progressed. I loved the way she dealt with Lee, encouraging and supporting him. The two of them have great chemistry and their interactions were heartwarming. I particularly liked the scenes with the child and also the epilogue.
While the book can be read as a standalone, I still recommend reading the earlier parts first as you get to know and better understand the backstories and also the secondary characters, including the villain of this book.
Since the carriage accident in which his wife died and which left him severely disfigured, Leopold "Lee" Bennet, Earl of Champaign, has suffered from severe panic attacks and lives a secluded life on his country estate.
When the widowed Lady Charlotte James is left pregnant by the man she thought she loved and wanted to marry, and he also spreads nasty rumours about her, she must act quickly and find a husband to save her reputation. Her last chance is the Waylands' masked ball, where she makes the acquaintance of Lee, who doesn't seem to know her. The next day she seeks him out to seduce him, but he sees through her plan but still offers her a marriage of convenience for a limited time and agrees to recognise her child. Despite their traumatic experiences, their different characters and the rumors, they soon become friends and secretly long for a lasting relationship…
I am happy to recommend this touching romance novel with its great character development and endearing protagonists who deserve their happy ending!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
February 13, 2025
In the latest installment of this wonderful series, Lee (Leopold Bennett), Lord Champaign, a widower badly scarred from a carriage accident that took his wife’s life (off page but he does share the memory with the heroine) decides (after healing from the accident and being a recluse for years, decides to make an appearance at gaming hell’s (owned by a friend) masked ball. Charlotte, pregnant (just starting to show) and abandoned by her lover and father of the baby also attends the ball, desperately hoping to seduce a man to marry her and save her from ruin. Fans of the series will appreciate the appearances of many other characters (especially Celine and Will (from Angel of Mine) but please know that it is not necessary to read any other books of the series to enjoy this book.
Lee and Charlotte’s marriage starts out as a marriage of convenience but it turned into a story of stargazing and peppermint and respect and suspense and mystery and a bit of angst and heated awakening. I laughed and giggled at the banter between Lee and Charlotte and the good-natured eye-rolling. Lee has an evil cat, Cass (short for Cassiopeia) who literally bites the hand that feeds her. Charlotte, with her shrewish reputation, fit right in!
There is one big loose end from Angel of Mine that is tied up in the book but this story is all about Charlotte and Lee finally finding their peace, their person, their home and their love.
Yes, this ends in a happily ever after and the road that the characters travel is wonderful, heated 🔥🔥 and so worth the read!!
Lee and Charlotte’s marriage starts out as a marriage of convenience but it turned into a story of stargazing and peppermint and respect and suspense and mystery and a bit of angst and heated awakening. I laughed and giggled at the banter between Lee and Charlotte and the good-natured eye-rolling. Lee has an evil cat, Cass (short for Cassiopeia) who literally bites the hand that feeds her. Charlotte, with her shrewish reputation, fit right in!
There is one big loose end from Angel of Mine that is tied up in the book but this story is all about Charlotte and Lee finally finding their peace, their person, their home and their love.
Yes, this ends in a happily ever after and the road that the characters travel is wonderful, heated 🔥🔥 and so worth the read!!
December 2, 2024
This series is showing no signs of slowing down. Lee, Lord Champaign has finally returned to town after 10 long years. Now a widower, he is no longer the golden hero. Nervously, he decides to make an appearance at a masked ball. Charlotte, pregnant and abandoned, also attends the ball, desperately seeking a man to save her from ruin. Fans of the series will appreciate that this is the same fateful ball that was attended by Celine. That being said, the timeline of this story runs concurrently with the previous book "Angel of Mine."
I was initially disappointed that Lee and Celine didn't get back together but the love story of Lee and Charlotte more than made up for it. It started out as a simple marriage of convenience, but it blossomed into so much more. The only tears that I cried were happy ones. The interactions of Lee and Charlotte were often funny. There was lots of good-natured eye-rolling and I was there for it. Lee had an evil cat and obnoxious servants. Charlotte, with her shrewish reputation, fit right in!
On a serious note, justice was finally achieved for the long-ago murder of Celine's first husband. The pivotal scene of that storyline gave me the chills. Followers of the series absolutely need to read this book. It would be worthwhile for new readers to start at the beginning to get a fuller appreciation of the story.
I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.
I was initially disappointed that Lee and Celine didn't get back together but the love story of Lee and Charlotte more than made up for it. It started out as a simple marriage of convenience, but it blossomed into so much more. The only tears that I cried were happy ones. The interactions of Lee and Charlotte were often funny. There was lots of good-natured eye-rolling and I was there for it. Lee had an evil cat and obnoxious servants. Charlotte, with her shrewish reputation, fit right in!
On a serious note, justice was finally achieved for the long-ago murder of Celine's first husband. The pivotal scene of that storyline gave me the chills. Followers of the series absolutely need to read this book. It would be worthwhile for new readers to start at the beginning to get a fuller appreciation of the story.
I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.
January 11, 2025
I really, really enjoyed reading this book.
It is part of a series but it reads perfectly fine as a standalone book. The plot is very well written and interesting. The author writes with great depth and detail, which I love to read in a book.
I love a scarred hero story. Charlotte and Lee are wonderful main characters and I loved Lee’s valet Brigsby. I was engaged in the story from the start and couldn’t put it down. I read late into the night and started again as soon as I woke up.
Charlotte was a woman in a desperate situation and Lee comes to her rescue, even though some of the ton knew about her situation, Lee didn’t care. He is the perfect man, except for his scars from an accident and the guilt he carries with them.
The development of their relationship was well paced, there was a lot of chemistry between the two. Both Lee and Charlotte have a lot of personality development throughout the plot.
There are some lovely secondary characters that really enhanced Lee and Charlotte’s story, especially Cassiopeia, the very sassy cat!
I also loved that it had not one but two epilogues!
Every moment I spent reading this book was a moment well spent. I would definitely recommend this book to any historical romance reader.
I will definitely be reading more from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It is part of a series but it reads perfectly fine as a standalone book. The plot is very well written and interesting. The author writes with great depth and detail, which I love to read in a book.
I love a scarred hero story. Charlotte and Lee are wonderful main characters and I loved Lee’s valet Brigsby. I was engaged in the story from the start and couldn’t put it down. I read late into the night and started again as soon as I woke up.
Charlotte was a woman in a desperate situation and Lee comes to her rescue, even though some of the ton knew about her situation, Lee didn’t care. He is the perfect man, except for his scars from an accident and the guilt he carries with them.
The development of their relationship was well paced, there was a lot of chemistry between the two. Both Lee and Charlotte have a lot of personality development throughout the plot.
There are some lovely secondary characters that really enhanced Lee and Charlotte’s story, especially Cassiopeia, the very sassy cat!
I also loved that it had not one but two epilogues!
Every moment I spent reading this book was a moment well spent. I would definitely recommend this book to any historical romance reader.
I will definitely be reading more from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 12, 2024
I loved it! Charlotte and Lee sure have their work cut out for them if they are trying to make this properly conducted sham work! Set in the London area of 1816 was definitely not the most modern thinking Era of its time by far. Scandals around every corner is the frowned-upon norm. Between gambling away your wife's inheritance, taking on a Mistress (or 2) and even doing away with one's past baggage and becoming a Widow, these are some crazy and tough times for all around. And Charlotte just seems to be hit left and right with not so great news. She is battling against time and her body and trying to find a knight in shining armor. Meanwhile, Lee is doing everything to stay pretty much invisible. So how dl these two ends up in the situation they are? All of takes is a "why not" or "what di you have to lose" to figure they are each other's best answer.
I loved this story, and seeing how they each grow to love themselves as well as one another. If you're looking for love at first sight, this isn't it. There is tough love here. Miscommunication all around. But plenty of banter, steamy scenes and a happily ever after makes this well worth the read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved this story, and seeing how they each grow to love themselves as well as one another. If you're looking for love at first sight, this isn't it. There is tough love here. Miscommunication all around. But plenty of banter, steamy scenes and a happily ever after makes this well worth the read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 30, 2024
I enjoyed a good 75% of this book. I liked the concept, the character's quirks, the circumstances that brought them together, how they discovered each other and how the villain got his comeuppance.
I also like a lot of the writer's style - witty, clever and descriptive without pandering to the reader.
However I found some of it frustrating.
Firstly, the spelling of the valet's name appeared to change from page to page. I obviously understand the idea of nicknames but the constant switch between seemed inconsistent.
Secondly, I also noted a few grammatical and language issues which were either simply incorrect or did not fit the time the book was supposed to be set in.
Thirdly, I found some parts of it unnecessarily overlong. I found myself skipping parts which I did not feel added much to the story bar showing the reader that both the main characters were terrible communicators and had some serious issues which needed ironing out before they could function properly in the relationship, at least at first. I feel the book could have been shorter and lost nothing for being so.
I'd give another book by this author a go, as there was much about the book I enjoyed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I also like a lot of the writer's style - witty, clever and descriptive without pandering to the reader.
However I found some of it frustrating.
Firstly, the spelling of the valet's name appeared to change from page to page. I obviously understand the idea of nicknames but the constant switch between seemed inconsistent.
Secondly, I also noted a few grammatical and language issues which were either simply incorrect or did not fit the time the book was supposed to be set in.
Thirdly, I found some parts of it unnecessarily overlong. I found myself skipping parts which I did not feel added much to the story bar showing the reader that both the main characters were terrible communicators and had some serious issues which needed ironing out before they could function properly in the relationship, at least at first. I feel the book could have been shorter and lost nothing for being so.
I'd give another book by this author a go, as there was much about the book I enjoyed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 6, 2025
We have Lady Charlotte James newly widowed just under a year and Leopold Bennet, Earl of Champaign a most unlikely pair!
Charlotte is expecting and her husband is deceased and her lover spurned her and spread vicious gossip about her!
She has one desperate attempt at a masquerade ball where she meets and attempts to seduce Leo!
Leo had already encountered gossip but not the lady in question!
They strike a bargain with his name for her shame!
When she sees Leo without the mask she did not runaway screaming like most women!
These two have a lot in common! The rumors that Leo murdered his wife are untrue and Charlotte is not a shrew exactly just trying to secure a little respect and affection! Charlotte seeks it from people who don’t have it to give!
Leo survived an accident that scars him and takes his first wife away!
These two take quite a while to talk to and not at each other! I was about to give up! They share intimacies but not actual joining in the beginning but they get to know the real person beneath invisible and invisible scars!
I love the the reunion of others although I haven’t read their stories! Bravo on bringing a very different slant on the Beauty and the Beast!
Charlotte is expecting and her husband is deceased and her lover spurned her and spread vicious gossip about her!
She has one desperate attempt at a masquerade ball where she meets and attempts to seduce Leo!
Leo had already encountered gossip but not the lady in question!
They strike a bargain with his name for her shame!
When she sees Leo without the mask she did not runaway screaming like most women!
These two have a lot in common! The rumors that Leo murdered his wife are untrue and Charlotte is not a shrew exactly just trying to secure a little respect and affection! Charlotte seeks it from people who don’t have it to give!
Leo survived an accident that scars him and takes his first wife away!
These two take quite a while to talk to and not at each other! I was about to give up! They share intimacies but not actual joining in the beginning but they get to know the real person beneath invisible and invisible scars!
I love the the reunion of others although I haven’t read their stories! Bravo on bringing a very different slant on the Beauty and the Beast!
February 14, 2025
* I received this book digitally for free and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review*
Hello Fellow Readers,
While A Properly Conducted Sham is book five in the 'Most Imprudent Matches' series you can read this as a standalone which is exactly what I did. However, I may have to go read the other books in this series because I enjoyed this book. A retelling of sorts of 'Beauty and the Beast' Lee 'the Beast' a disfigured man who lost his wife in a terrible accident, is such a sweet and precious cinnamon roll and I am so glad Charlotte, the Beauty, realized this. A widow who needs to get married, Charlotte started a little uptight, but I love how she was with Lee, She didn't care about his disfigurement, instead opening her heart and allowing this both to heal from past atrocities and grow into their marriage. Marriage of convenience isn't a trope I read often but I may need to pick up a couple of books because I always enjoy them.
While Lee and Charlotte's chemistry was more restrained than in most books, it was undeniable, and their love felt realistic. I was a little hesitant about the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book, but Hudson handled the sensitive topics well.
Overall, I enjoyed this romance, and I will be looking for more of Hudson's Books.
Hello Fellow Readers,
While A Properly Conducted Sham is book five in the 'Most Imprudent Matches' series you can read this as a standalone which is exactly what I did. However, I may have to go read the other books in this series because I enjoyed this book. A retelling of sorts of 'Beauty and the Beast' Lee 'the Beast' a disfigured man who lost his wife in a terrible accident, is such a sweet and precious cinnamon roll and I am so glad Charlotte, the Beauty, realized this. A widow who needs to get married, Charlotte started a little uptight, but I love how she was with Lee, She didn't care about his disfigurement, instead opening her heart and allowing this both to heal from past atrocities and grow into their marriage. Marriage of convenience isn't a trope I read often but I may need to pick up a couple of books because I always enjoy them.
While Lee and Charlotte's chemistry was more restrained than in most books, it was undeniable, and their love felt realistic. I was a little hesitant about the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book, but Hudson handled the sensitive topics well.
Overall, I enjoyed this romance, and I will be looking for more of Hudson's Books.
February 5, 2025
Nearly a year into widowhood and newly with child, Lady Charlotte James finds herself rejected by her lover. She needs to find a husband or face ruin so when she meets Leopold Bennet, Earl of Champaign, at a masquerade ball, she proposes a scandalous proposition. Lee agrees with a caveat of his own—one year in the country in exchange for the protection of his name. He has always shunned society and his own reflection which is terribly scarred. away in the country, he is free to spend countless hours in his observatory with the stars. They don’t judge him for the occasional, all-consuming attacks, nor do they stare in horror at his scarred face.
This twist on the storyline of “Beauty and the Beast” was well delivered. The character development was thought out carefully, with two couples believing so little in themselves to find love and comfort with each other. Falling in love seems inevitable for them. This is the 6th book in the series and is a stand-alone but reading the earlier books gives added meaning to this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This twist on the storyline of “Beauty and the Beast” was well delivered. The character development was thought out carefully, with two couples believing so little in themselves to find love and comfort with each other. Falling in love seems inevitable for them. This is the 6th book in the series and is a stand-alone but reading the earlier books gives added meaning to this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 16, 2025
This is a gorgeously written, emotional take on Beauty and the Beast, wrapped in the elegance and scandal of Regency romance.
Lady Charlotte James is clever, resilient, and refreshingly bold—even in the face of ruin. Widowed, pregnant, and the subject of vicious gossip, she needs a husband fast. Enter Leopold Bennet, the reclusive and scarred Earl of Champaign, who’d rather spend his nights with the stars than among society’s judgmental gaze. Their chance meeting at a masquerade is electric, but it's Charlotte's audacious proposal—and Lee’s surprising acceptance—that sets this unconventional love story in motion.
Their marriage of convenience is anything but simple. What begins as a practical arrangement slowly unfolds into a tender, passionate romance full of vulnerability, longing, and quiet strength. Charlotte and Lee are two broken souls who see each other for who they truly are, and their journey toward love is both heart-wrenching and hopeful.
It's a perfect read for fans of slow-burn romance, emotionally rich characters, and classic fairy tale retellings with a Regency twist.
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Lady Charlotte James is clever, resilient, and refreshingly bold—even in the face of ruin. Widowed, pregnant, and the subject of vicious gossip, she needs a husband fast. Enter Leopold Bennet, the reclusive and scarred Earl of Champaign, who’d rather spend his nights with the stars than among society’s judgmental gaze. Their chance meeting at a masquerade is electric, but it's Charlotte's audacious proposal—and Lee’s surprising acceptance—that sets this unconventional love story in motion.
Their marriage of convenience is anything but simple. What begins as a practical arrangement slowly unfolds into a tender, passionate romance full of vulnerability, longing, and quiet strength. Charlotte and Lee are two broken souls who see each other for who they truly are, and their journey toward love is both heart-wrenching and hopeful.
It's a perfect read for fans of slow-burn romance, emotionally rich characters, and classic fairy tale retellings with a Regency twist.
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 9, 2025
A social rescue with unintended consequences
My first impression of A Properly Conducted Sham was how delightful the heroine was, and how quickly I fell in love with the hero.
As the story progressed, I was both entertained, moved and amused by the re-imagined Beauty and the Beast plot, and the dogged determination of the heroine. She eventually manages to bring her reluctant husband fully into their marriage of convenience, and in spite of the obstacles, their marriage has a HEA, as is proven by the sweet epilogues (a link to a bonus epilogue is provided).
Overall, I really, really liked A Properly Conducted Sham, and I would have given it five stars if not for the needless vulgarities and religious expletives.
Content 411: This book contains mild swearing as well as religious expletives and “f” expletives. This book also contains descriptive sex scenes.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksirens. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
My first impression of A Properly Conducted Sham was how delightful the heroine was, and how quickly I fell in love with the hero.
As the story progressed, I was both entertained, moved and amused by the re-imagined Beauty and the Beast plot, and the dogged determination of the heroine. She eventually manages to bring her reluctant husband fully into their marriage of convenience, and in spite of the obstacles, their marriage has a HEA, as is proven by the sweet epilogues (a link to a bonus epilogue is provided).
Overall, I really, really liked A Properly Conducted Sham, and I would have given it five stars if not for the needless vulgarities and religious expletives.
Content 411: This book contains mild swearing as well as religious expletives and “f” expletives. This book also contains descriptive sex scenes.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksirens. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
January 28, 2025
I’ll be honest, going into this i didn’t not have a lot of love for Lady Charlotte. I was very unsure that i would care even a bit about how this went - but I got sucked in on the first page. Cant judge a book by its cover - or a previously fiendish woman by the image she shows the ton.
Now Lee I loved from the get - a damaged man with a heart of gold. Ugh. Melting. Lee came into this with a lot of trauma but god is he just the nicest man ever. Grumpy x Sunshine where he’s the sunshine??? i’m in love
Reading these two slowly fall in love was a breath of fresh air. They married for pretty much every reason but love - but they respected each other. They were kind a patient and grew to love each other in the small moments before they loved big. Not something we as readers traditionally get to experience in romance - and something that set this book apart from the rest of the series for me. Easily my favourite.
Thank you BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review. Can honestly say it was beautiful. Definitely recommend
Now Lee I loved from the get - a damaged man with a heart of gold. Ugh. Melting. Lee came into this with a lot of trauma but god is he just the nicest man ever. Grumpy x Sunshine where he’s the sunshine??? i’m in love
Reading these two slowly fall in love was a breath of fresh air. They married for pretty much every reason but love - but they respected each other. They were kind a patient and grew to love each other in the small moments before they loved big. Not something we as readers traditionally get to experience in romance - and something that set this book apart from the rest of the series for me. Easily my favourite.
Thank you BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review. Can honestly say it was beautiful. Definitely recommend
February 2, 2025
Well written, full of drama, love, secrets, society, mystery, romance, gossip, feelings, action, PTSD, emotions, intrigue and a very special cat. Charlotte is a widow who fell in love with the wrong man and is now pregnant by this Duke who dumps her and starts some gossip about her. She has always loved to be involved with gossip but not about herself. She now has to find a husband to except this child and to protect herself from this gossip. Leopold is an Earl who has had a terrible accident that left him with some scars and some emotional trauma. They meet up at a masquerade ball and dance plus talk some. She goes to him an offers herself up as a wife and a marriage of convenience. Leopold hate London and counters that they must stay one year in the country. He hates the gossips and just like his stars. Both of them feel that they need time alone and learn to enjoy each other. Great characters with both bad and good in themselves but will have to work at getting their happily ever after. Would recommend to everyone.
I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
February 5, 2025
Left alone and pregnant after a brief affair with a man she thought meant to marry her, Charlotte is desperate to find a husband. Her quest is made more difficult when he denies the baby is his and spreads rumors that indicate she was quite promiscuous. She meets and talks with Leopold Bennet, Earl of Champaign, at a masquerade. Leopold is badly scarred physically and emotionally from a fiery carriage accident that also took his wife. She approaches Lee with her problem and pleads with him to marry her. They come to an agreement for a marriage of convenience. This is an emotional and heart-touching story. Charlotte feels (rightfully) neglected and rejected. Lee suffers severe panic attacks, guilt, and embarrassment due to the accident and his scars. There is anxiety, uncertainty, and sorrow, but there is also some humor, joy, a beautiful slow-burn romance, and an exciting rescue. A good story with a beautiful ending.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 12, 2024
This was a sweet Beauty & the Beast re-telling that had me sighing with affection for Lee and Charlotte. It’s not obvious who is the beauty here and who is the beast – it’s appearances vs attitudes. Oh soo many things to enjoy in this character-driven romance, how they circle each other defensively as they try to work out how they’re going to conduct their ‘sham’ marriage, and how gentle they are with eachother as they both begin to heal from their pasts. It wasn’t particularly high steam but I honestly didn’t notice, I got everything I needed from seeing these two go from painfully isolated to a loving and supportive team.
I have just one bone to pick with this book and it is very specific to ME – I absolutely loathe the smell/taste/existence of PEPPERMINT. I’m sure I made a face every time it was mentioned so my face was screwed up for 97% of this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have just one bone to pick with this book and it is very specific to ME – I absolutely loathe the smell/taste/existence of PEPPERMINT. I’m sure I made a face every time it was mentioned so my face was screwed up for 97% of this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
January 7, 2025It is not often I have a book “hangover”, but this one did the trick. It is hard to convey what I felt for Leo, his problems, his guilt and his beautiful soul. If there ever was a man I could “fashion”, Leo would be it! Charlotte had some growing up to do, but I adored her “eye-rolls” ever so much. Though the climax was a bit of what I expected, there was a definite twist I did not see coming and that was exceptional. Oh, do not get me started on the cat…..parts of that were just hilarious! The characters were so very real and the descriptive writing was just enough to see it in your mind without being over drawn. I TRULY enjoyed this story, especially the second epilogue and truthfully am very sad the book finished. I will be thinking of Leo and Charlotte for a long time!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 5, 2025
Ally Hudson has done it yet again! She wrote a steamy Marriage-of-Convenience that I could not put down. I devoured Charlotte and Lee's story and really appreciated the length of this novel because I did not want it to end. I loved both Charlotte and Lee's personalities and how well they fit together and how well written they were with deep, emotional backstories that made me ache for both of them. The climax of their story stressed me out--in a good way--on the edge of my reading chair as I've never read anything like it in a historical romance. Nothing about this story is predictable, and I appreciate how well crafted it was. Such a delight to read that I can't wait for the next installment in the series. **I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.**
July 20, 2025
This is the story of Leopold Bennet, Earl of Champaign and Charlotte James. We’ve met Lee in earlier books in this series, but that was before he was married and subsequently lost his wife in a carriage accident. Charlotte too has appeared in earlier books, but she’s now widowed and pregnant, but not by her deceased husband. Can she charm Lee into a marriage of convenience to avoid shame and scandal…….
I wasn’t really looking forward to reading this book as Charlotte has been a right nasty piece of work from the outset, but the author has written a great story which left me appreciating that people can change for the better, especially when they have someone like Lee to learn to love. Both Charlotte’s and Lee’s problems were beautifully covered, this is an excellent addition to the Most Imprudent Matches series 🐈⬛
I wasn’t really looking forward to reading this book as Charlotte has been a right nasty piece of work from the outset, but the author has written a great story which left me appreciating that people can change for the better, especially when they have someone like Lee to learn to love. Both Charlotte’s and Lee’s problems were beautifully covered, this is an excellent addition to the Most Imprudent Matches series 🐈⬛
December 3, 2024
This is my first Ally Hudson book and what a find it was. It included some of my favorite tropes, pregnancy, scarred hero, marriage of convenience, sassy pets, shrew turned heroine (not sure what that trope is really called). I was shocked at how many times a shed tears, it really pulled at my hear strings. Both MC are perfectly matched, their love story develops in such a beautiful way.
That cat. Just a star.
I felt perfectly oriented reading this as a stand alone. I will be going back to ready the previous books, very excited about it.
As a side note, this is not going to appease those who want the steam, it's not there and it was fine. It was not sold to me as a such.
I read this as an ARC, all opinions are my own.
That cat. Just a star.
I felt perfectly oriented reading this as a stand alone. I will be going back to ready the previous books, very excited about it.
As a side note, this is not going to appease those who want the steam, it's not there and it was fine. It was not sold to me as a such.
I read this as an ARC, all opinions are my own.
January 16, 2025
Thank you to BookSirens and Ally Hudson for providing me with an ARC of this book to read and review!
I will start off by saying that I enjoyed this story so much more than the first book I read by Hudson. For me, the characters were much more relatable and LIKABLE to me, which made it a breeze to read. But I found myself even more annoyed when Hudson brought in the (to me!!) previously unlikable FMC and endangered Charlotte and her pregnancy, all because Charlotte had *le gasp!!* dared to be catty towards her back in the day. But man, did I ever love the love story that Hudson wove between Lee and Charlotte! I'm so hoping to see more of them in her next story, even though I know that the focus will be on another couple in the universe that she's creating.
I will start off by saying that I enjoyed this story so much more than the first book I read by Hudson. For me, the characters were much more relatable and LIKABLE to me, which made it a breeze to read. But I found myself even more annoyed when Hudson brought in the (to me!!) previously unlikable FMC and endangered Charlotte and her pregnancy, all because Charlotte had *le gasp!!* dared to be catty towards her back in the day. But man, did I ever love the love story that Hudson wove between Lee and Charlotte! I'm so hoping to see more of them in her next story, even though I know that the focus will be on another couple in the universe that she's creating.
February 5, 2025
The start of this book was slow and I struggled to get into it at first. However I wanted to continue as I was intruiged by the plot of the heroine being pregnant with not the Hero's baby and I'm so glad I perserved because I loved it!
I loved the slow burning chemistry building for Charlotte and Lee. I loved the vulnerability shown by the characters and the beauty and the beast trope. This was a sweet, genuine love story of two characters who went through past trauma, had their scars but deserved to find love.
If you love a slow burn, marriage of convenience, beauty and the beast, not the Hero's baby and a beautiful, genuine love story then you have to read this!
I received an arc via the author and this review was submitted voluntarily and the opinion is my own.
I loved the slow burning chemistry building for Charlotte and Lee. I loved the vulnerability shown by the characters and the beauty and the beast trope. This was a sweet, genuine love story of two characters who went through past trauma, had their scars but deserved to find love.
If you love a slow burn, marriage of convenience, beauty and the beast, not the Hero's baby and a beautiful, genuine love story then you have to read this!
I received an arc via the author and this review was submitted voluntarily and the opinion is my own.
December 5, 2024
Charlotte is nothing if not resourceful and resilient. She's pregnant and seeking a respectable father for her unborn baby. Lee needs an heir, so he agrees to the compromise with her. They have a slow burn relationship with both of them growing more in love with each other despite their poor communication at times. I loved how Lee accepted Leo instantly and forever. The peace and happiness is short lived, as the past rears its' evil head. I liked how they acted together as a team with loyal friends to overcome it. The epilogue was brilliant and quite satisfying. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
January 7, 2025
Unexpectly a joy of a novel filled with wonderful characters with, alas, a few dastardly ones thrown into the mix. One of the best marriage of convenience stories I've read over the past year or so with Leopold and Charlotte having their own needs for such a marriage and I loved watching them fall in love with each other. The added joy of Leo accepting Charlotte's baby as his own without hesitation. I heartily recommend this story of two lost souls who remake themselves, with some help from the stars, into better and far happier human beings. Although I received an ARC, my opinions are my own and given voluntarily.
January 12, 2025
A properly conducted sham
This book hooked me from the start! How was I going to feel about reading about a protagonist from the previous books? Captivated is how I felt. Just brings home the you don’t know what goes on! Loved this book through out. You can sense the relationship develop realistically through time. This was also more steamy than the others which is a plus from me! But it seemed integral to the characters development. Can’t wait for the rest of the series! PS need to read about the kids too when they grow up!
This book hooked me from the start! How was I going to feel about reading about a protagonist from the previous books? Captivated is how I felt. Just brings home the you don’t know what goes on! Loved this book through out. You can sense the relationship develop realistically through time. This was also more steamy than the others which is a plus from me! But it seemed integral to the characters development. Can’t wait for the rest of the series! PS need to read about the kids too when they grow up!
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